Highlights – Craft Experiences
Handwoven Textiles
Explore Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia handwoven fabrics.
Bamboo & Cane Crafts
Discover intricate bamboo, cane, and woodwork creations.
Artisan Villages
Visit local artisan villages and workshops to see crafts in action.
Traditional Artifacts
Buy authentic pottery, jewelry, and traditional artifacts as souvenirs.
Sustainable Practices
Learn about sustainable and eco-friendly craft production.
Craft Fairs
Participate in craft fairs and vibrant cultural markets.
Handloom Textiles – Weaving Tribal Identity
Meghalaya’s handloom tradition is particularly strong among the Khasi and Jaintia communities. Women weave vibrant fabrics using traditional backstrap looms, creating shawls, wraps, skirts, and blankets adorned with geometric patterns and symbolic motifs.
Each pattern tells a story—of tribal lineage, nature, or spiritual beliefs. Textiles like the Jainsoh, Ryndia, and Garo shawls are highly valued for their quality, colors, and cultural significance.
Bamboo & Cane Handicrafts – Nature’s Gift
The hills and forests of Meghalaya provide abundant bamboo and cane, which artisans skillfully transform into functional and decorative items. Baskets, mats, furniture, and musical instruments are crafted using age-old techniques passed down through generations.
Bamboo and cane crafts are not only beautiful but also sustainable, reflecting the tribes’ close relationship with the natural environment.
Pottery, Jewelry & Decorative Arts
Pottery in Meghalaya, particularly among the Jaintia and Khasi communities, includes clay pots, utensils, and ritual items. Jewelry made from beads, seeds, and metal adornments represents tribal identity and is often worn during festivals and dances.
Decorative arts, including carved wooden figures, wall hangings, and ritual masks, allow travelers to explore the symbolic and aesthetic richness of tribal life.
Supporting Local Artisans
Purchasing handlooms and handicrafts directly from villages, markets, and cooperative societies ensures that artisans receive fair compensation. Visiting craft workshops also allows travelers to witness the making process, learn about traditional techniques, and gain deeper appreciation of the skill and effort involved.
Many communities organize craft fairs and exhibitions, especially during festivals, where tourists can engage, learn, and shop responsibly.
FAQ – Handlooms & Handicrafts in Meghalaya
Q1. Which tribes are known for handlooms?
The Khasi, Garo, and Jaintia tribes are all known for distinctive handwoven textiles.
Q2. Where can I buy authentic crafts?
Local markets, artisan villages, and cultural fairs in Shillong, Cherrapunji, and Tura are ideal for authentic purchases.
Q3. Are crafts eco-friendly?
Yes, most handlooms and handicrafts are made using natural fibers, bamboo, cane, and clay, reflecting sustainable practices.
Q4. Can travelers watch artisans at work?
Yes, many villages and workshops welcome visitors to observe and learn traditional techniques.
Celebrate Meghalaya's Tribal Artistry!
Connect with local communities and take home authentic pieces of the state’s rich heritage.
Explore Handloom Tours